Mystery Ranch Urban Assault 21 Review (UA21)
The Mystery Ranch Urban Assault 21L expertly bridges urban functionality with outdoor capability. After rigorous testing, we found this hybrid design delivers exceptional versatility for everyday carry.
Our Verdict
Pros
- Tri-Zip offers versatile, convenient access
- Densely-padded, breathable harness system
- Versatile in its use case
Cons
- Tablet and laptop sleeves can be hard to access when bag is fully packed
- Bag shape can get a slight dent in the middle when not fully packed
- No included elastic keepers to manage excess strap
Technical Details
Disclaimer: We take the measurements of the bag provided by the manufacturer and compare them to the allowance listed on airline websites. This should be used as a guideline rather than a rule. Bags can change size as you pack them out, and every airline’s interpretation of compliance is different. Just because a bag is listed as carry-on compliant here doesn’t mean that the airline will interpret it that way.
Carry-on Compliance
View 95/145 Airlines
Like the Look
Polled on Instagram
- Capacity: 21l
- Weight (lb): 2.8 lb (1.3 kg)
- Denier: 500D
- Dimensions: 20.25 in x 10 in x 8.75 in (51.4 x 25.4 x 22.2 cm)
- Notable Materials: CORDURA®, Nylon, YKK Zippers, Duraflex Hardware
- Manufacturing Country: Vietnam
- Laptop Compartment Size:15"
- Warranty Information: Mystery Ranch Warranty
Full Review
The Travel Gear Collective team tested the Urban Assault 21L (UA21) extensively throughout Michigan and Minnesota. For those seeking different capacities, Mystery Ranch offers 18L and 24L version options.
Materials & Aesthetic
Our Instagram polling revealed 77% approval for the UA21’s design – notably outperforming the UA24’s 51% rating. The streamlined profile contributes to its broader appeal.
During testing, we examined 13 colorways ranging from vibrant Lemon and Flame to understated Black and Galaxy options. Each colorway influences the pack’s character – muted tones emphasize urban sophistication while Wood Waxed and Coyote variants enhance outdoor readiness.
Rather than featuring mysterious-looking bottles of ranch, the pack displays Mystery Ranch’s wordmark on a front patch. While prominent, it represents the brand’s proven quality.
The 500D CORDURA nylon construction demonstrated impressive durability throughout our testing period. The material’s rugged feel translated to real-world resilience – we observed no tears, scratches, or scuffs.
Weather resistance comes courtesy of AquaGuard YKK zippers with oversized cord pulls that proved especially useful during cold-weather testing with gloves. Thoughtful nylon tabs at zipper ends facilitate smooth operation and double as attachment points.
Duraflex hardware performed reliably across all connection points and adjusters.
External Components
Left: Riley, Height, 5’4″ (162 cm), Torso: 16.5″ (42 cm) | Right: Tom, Height, 6’2″ (188 cm), Torso: 19.25″ (49 cm)
The UA21’s harness system ranks among the most comfortable we’ve tested. Its narrow, elongated frame particularly benefits taller users, eliminating the common issue of pack hover.
Dense, mesh-padded shoulder straps provide extended wear comfort, while air mesh lining enhances ventilation. The absence of strap keepers can be addressed with aftermarket solutions like Tom Bihn Strap Keepers or VELCRO Brand Cable Ties.
The adjustable sternum strap incorporates a hydration hose management system via integrated bungee cord. Load lifters at the top enhance weight distribution during extended outdoor use, though they’re less crucial for daily carry.
Air mesh extends to the back panel, promoting ventilation despite inevitable warm-weather heat buildup. The frame sheet strikes an ideal balance between structure and flexibility, conforming to different body shapes while maintaining support.
The minimalist top handle uses simple nylon webbing – functional if not luxurious.
Unlike the UA24, this model features bottom PALS webbing for MOLLE accessories or carabiner attachment. The zipper pull loops provide additional attachment points.
The pack eschews external water bottle pockets, maintaining its slim profile. Internal storage accommodates our YETI Rambler 18oz Bottle, though proximity to electronics requires careful consideration.
Inside The Pack
The top quick-grab compartment features a mesh net design that proved ideal during our testing for frequently accessed items. The generous sizing accommodates wallets, sunglasses cases, and smartphones without compromising accessibility.
A robust plastic key leash in this compartment demonstrated smooth operation throughout testing. Its strategic placement offers superior access compared to main compartment key clips we’ve tested on other packs.
The main compartment utilizes Mystery Ranch’s signature triple-zip system. Our testing revealed multiple access options: diagonal zippers for quick top-loading retrieval, center zipper for bottom access, or full three-zipper opening for maximum visibility.
Dual mesh side pockets within the main compartment effectively organized smaller items. During testing, we successfully stored a power bank without compromising functionality.
Pack configuration impacts closure dynamics – longer items can affect the flaps’ ability to curve inward. Our testing with plus-sized devices showed minimal interference with overall functionality.
We observed that partial loading creates dead space, resulting in a slight peanut-shaped indentation. Full packing eliminates this issue.
The laptop sleeve accommodates up to 15″ devices. Our 15″ MacBook Pro testing revealed snug but manageable fit with a protective sleeve. Users requiring separate laptop access should consider the UA24 alternative.
The laptop compartment’s substantial false bottom and suspension system provided reliable protection during commute testing. An additional sleeve accommodates tablets or, in our testing configuration, a keyboard.
Both sleeves utilize an asymmetric velcro closure system – the larger loop target area enables quick securing without precise alignment.
The remaining space offers unrestricted packing options. Our test configuration included a hoodie, packing cube, and Roost Laptop Stand 2.0. Full packing can restrict laptop/tablet sleeve access, requiring gear removal or leaving straps unfastened for convenience.
Usage Timeline
Initial Usage
Condition: Excellent
- Harness system excels under full loads
- Hydration bladder compatibility noted
- Versatile urban-to-outdoor transition
Condition: Excellent
- Triple-zip design proves effective for bottom access
- Generous top pocket capacity
- Noted center indentation with uneven load distribution
Condition: Excellent
- Construction integrity maintained
- Harness system performed well during 9-mile hike
- Full pack impacts laptop compartment accessibility
- Weather resistance proved adequate in rain exposure
Author: The Travel Gear Collective Team
The Travel Gear Collective team combines expertise from gear designers, professional photographers, adventure guides, and sustainable travel specialists. Our rigorous testing protocols and real-world experience inform every review, ensuring practical insights for travelers worldwide.
Other Bags & Pouch Reviews
Table of Contents
Mystery Ranch Urban Assault 21 Review (UA21)
The Mystery Ranch Urban Assault 21L expertly bridges urban functionality with outdoor capability. After rigorous testing, we found this hybrid design delivers exceptional versatility for everyday carry.
Our Verdict
Pros
- Tri-Zip offers versatile, convenient access
- Densely-padded, breathable harness system
- Versatile in its use case
Cons
- Tablet and laptop sleeves can be hard to access when bag is fully packed
- Bag shape can get a slight dent in the middle when not fully packed
- No included elastic keepers to manage excess strap
Technical Details
Disclaimer: We take the measurements of the bag provided by the manufacturer and compare them to the allowance listed on airline websites. This should be used as a guideline rather than a rule. Bags can change size as you pack them out, and every airline’s interpretation of compliance is different. Just because a bag is listed as carry-on compliant here doesn’t mean that the airline will interpret it that way.
Carry-on Compliance
View 95/145 Airlines
Like the Look
Polled on Instagram
- Capacity: 21l
- Weight (lb): 2.8 lb (1.3 kg)
- Denier: 500D
- Dimensions: 20.25 in x 10 in x 8.75 in (51.4 x 25.4 x 22.2 cm)
- Notable Materials: CORDURA®, Nylon, YKK Zippers, Duraflex Hardware
- Manufacturing Country: Vietnam
- Laptop Compartment Size:15"
- Warranty Information: Mystery Ranch Warranty
Full Review
The Travel Gear Collective team tested the Urban Assault 21L (UA21) extensively throughout Michigan and Minnesota. For those seeking different capacities, Mystery Ranch offers 18L and 24L version options.
Materials & Aesthetic
Our Instagram polling revealed 77% approval for the UA21’s design – notably outperforming the UA24’s 51% rating. The streamlined profile contributes to its broader appeal.
During testing, we examined 13 colorways ranging from vibrant Lemon and Flame to understated Black and Galaxy options. Each colorway influences the pack’s character – muted tones emphasize urban sophistication while Wood Waxed and Coyote variants enhance outdoor readiness.
Rather than featuring mysterious-looking bottles of ranch, the pack displays Mystery Ranch’s wordmark on a front patch. While prominent, it represents the brand’s proven quality.
The 500D CORDURA nylon construction demonstrated impressive durability throughout our testing period. The material’s rugged feel translated to real-world resilience – we observed no tears, scratches, or scuffs.
Weather resistance comes courtesy of AquaGuard YKK zippers with oversized cord pulls that proved especially useful during cold-weather testing with gloves. Thoughtful nylon tabs at zipper ends facilitate smooth operation and double as attachment points.
Duraflex hardware performed reliably across all connection points and adjusters.
External Components
Left: Riley, Height, 5’4″ (162 cm), Torso: 16.5″ (42 cm) | Right: Tom, Height, 6’2″ (188 cm), Torso: 19.25″ (49 cm)
The UA21’s harness system ranks among the most comfortable we’ve tested. Its narrow, elongated frame particularly benefits taller users, eliminating the common issue of pack hover.
Dense, mesh-padded shoulder straps provide extended wear comfort, while air mesh lining enhances ventilation. The absence of strap keepers can be addressed with aftermarket solutions like Tom Bihn Strap Keepers or VELCRO Brand Cable Ties.
The adjustable sternum strap incorporates a hydration hose management system via integrated bungee cord. Load lifters at the top enhance weight distribution during extended outdoor use, though they’re less crucial for daily carry.
Air mesh extends to the back panel, promoting ventilation despite inevitable warm-weather heat buildup. The frame sheet strikes an ideal balance between structure and flexibility, conforming to different body shapes while maintaining support.
The minimalist top handle uses simple nylon webbing – functional if not luxurious.
Unlike the UA24, this model features bottom PALS webbing for MOLLE accessories or carabiner attachment. The zipper pull loops provide additional attachment points.
The pack eschews external water bottle pockets, maintaining its slim profile. Internal storage accommodates our YETI Rambler 18oz Bottle, though proximity to electronics requires careful consideration.
Inside The Pack
The top quick-grab compartment features a mesh net design that proved ideal during our testing for frequently accessed items. The generous sizing accommodates wallets, sunglasses cases, and smartphones without compromising accessibility.
A robust plastic key leash in this compartment demonstrated smooth operation throughout testing. Its strategic placement offers superior access compared to main compartment key clips we’ve tested on other packs.
The main compartment utilizes Mystery Ranch’s signature triple-zip system. Our testing revealed multiple access options: diagonal zippers for quick top-loading retrieval, center zipper for bottom access, or full three-zipper opening for maximum visibility.
Dual mesh side pockets within the main compartment effectively organized smaller items. During testing, we successfully stored a power bank without compromising functionality.
Pack configuration impacts closure dynamics – longer items can affect the flaps’ ability to curve inward. Our testing with plus-sized devices showed minimal interference with overall functionality.
We observed that partial loading creates dead space, resulting in a slight peanut-shaped indentation. Full packing eliminates this issue.
The laptop sleeve accommodates up to 15″ devices. Our 15″ MacBook Pro testing revealed snug but manageable fit with a protective sleeve. Users requiring separate laptop access should consider the UA24 alternative.
The laptop compartment’s substantial false bottom and suspension system provided reliable protection during commute testing. An additional sleeve accommodates tablets or, in our testing configuration, a keyboard.
Both sleeves utilize an asymmetric velcro closure system – the larger loop target area enables quick securing without precise alignment.
The remaining space offers unrestricted packing options. Our test configuration included a hoodie, packing cube, and Roost Laptop Stand 2.0. Full packing can restrict laptop/tablet sleeve access, requiring gear removal or leaving straps unfastened for convenience.
Usage Timeline
Initial Usage
Condition: Excellent
- Harness system excels under full loads
- Hydration bladder compatibility noted
- Versatile urban-to-outdoor transition
Condition: Excellent
- Triple-zip design proves effective for bottom access
- Generous top pocket capacity
- Noted center indentation with uneven load distribution
Condition: Excellent
- Construction integrity maintained
- Harness system performed well during 9-mile hike
- Full pack impacts laptop compartment accessibility
- Weather resistance proved adequate in rain exposure
Author: The Travel Gear Collective Team
The Travel Gear Collective team combines expertise from gear designers, professional photographers, adventure guides, and sustainable travel specialists. Our rigorous testing protocols and real-world experience inform every review, ensuring practical insights for travelers worldwide.